Severe Weather

The lead agency for severe weather events depends on the type and impacts of the weather.

ON MERSEYSIDE

Merseyside generally has a temperate maritime climate with typically warm rather than hot summers and cool to cold winters. The effect of our west coast location means that weather extremes are sometimes moderated, however, there is a risk of heavy rainfall, snow and strong winds on occasion. Like much of the UK, our weather can be unpredictable, with severe weather most notably tending to affect transport, utilities and communications.

We are unable to reduce the likelihood of severe weather, however, by being prepared for such events we can reduce the impact to ourselves and our communities.

CONSEQUENCES

The impacts of severe weather are varied, some common issues include travel disruptions, damage and disruption to basic utilities and damage to property.

Severe weather affects individuals, the community, businesses and the ability of agencies to deliver essential services to the community.

WHAT ARE WE DOING IN MERSEYSIDE?

We have plans in place to manage and co-ordinate the agencies responding to severe weather events;

When we plan for big events like the Grand National, parades or other public events we take the likely weather conditions into account.

be aware of the latest weather forecasts and warnings from the Met Office;

be prepared to alter your plans in times of severe weather;

keep an eye on the elderly and vulnerable members of your community this winter, check on them in times of severe weather, discourage them from going outside when it’s icy and help them with shopping; if possible;

cold weather affects the health of the elderly often resulting in slips and falls or hypothermia which can be fatal. Keep an eye on those who might be vulnerable and ensure they are well looked after and warm;

when travelling in potentially bad weather prepare for the unexpected by packing a survival kit should you be stranded somewhere (check Highways England website for detailed information and any traffic information that may result in you cancelling or changing your timing and or route);

if travelling by public transport, check on a regular basis, the local travel updates provided by Merseytravel.

prepare your home - keep a torch handy and get your appliances serviced by a Gas Safe registered engineer to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Vulnerable households can get extra support by signing up to the Priority Services Register. Contact your gas or electricity network to find out more. Visit www.energynetworks.org to find out who your network operator is;

keep your eyes open - keep an eye on the weather forecast and, if you lose your electricity supply or have a gas emergency, check on your neighbours.

DURING

Keep warm, keep well

Cold weather brings with it bugs and viruses. Keep warm and well this winter by preparing for illness as much as you can, especially if you (or your loved ones) suffer from asthma, CoPD or other illnesses where sudden drops in temperature can affect health;

Food is a vital source of energy and helps to keep your body warm so have plenty of hot food and drinks;

aim to include five daily portions of fruit and vegetables. Tinned and frozen vegetables count toward your five a day;

stock up on tinned and frozen foods so you don’t have to go out too much when it’s cold or icy;

exercise is good for you all year round and it can keep you warm in winter;

if possible, try to move around at least once an hour. But remember to speak to your GP before starting any exercise plans;

wear lots of thin layers – clothes made from cotton, wool or fleecy fibres are particularly good and maintain body heat;

wear good-fitting slippers with a good grip indoors and shoes with a good grip outside to prevent trips, slips and falls;

make sure you have spare medication in case you are unable to go out;

check if you are eligible for inclusion on the priority services register operated by your water and power supplier.

Keep your home warm, efficiently and safely

Heating your home to at least 18°C in winter poses minimal risk to your health when you are wearing suitable clothing;

get your heating system and cooking appliances checked and keep your home well ventilated;

use your electric blanket as instructed and get it tested every three years. Never use a hot water bottle with an electric blanket;

do not use a gas cooker or oven to heat your home; it is inefficient and there is a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning and this can kill;

make sure you have a supply of heating oil or LPG or sold fuel if you are not on mains gas or electricity – to make sure you do not run out in winter.

Get financial support

There are grants, benefits and sources of advice to make your home more energy efficient, improve your heating or help with bills. It’s worthwhile claiming all the benefits you are entitled to before winter sets in.

Driving advice

Only travel at a speed at which you can stop within the distance you see to be clear. Speed limits are the maximum in ideal conditions, in difficult conditions they can often be too fast;

avoid harsh braking and accelerations, or sharp steering;

always reduce your speed smoothly and in plenty of time on slippery surfaces;

slow down in plenty of time before bends and corners;

if ice and snow are present, get into a low gear earlier than normal and allow your speed to fall and use your brakes gently, this will prevent the wheels from locking;

increase the gap between you and the vehicle in front, it is suggested you may need up to TEN TIMES the normal stopping distance when applying your brakes;

keep your vehicle well-ventilated, if the vehicle heater is turned up fully you can quickly become drowsy;

visibility will probably be reduced, so use dripped headlights;

during wintry weather, road surfaces are often wet and/or covered in frost and ice or snow, therefore, for everyone's safety please 'Drive to Arrive'.

AFTER

Remove any snow early in the morning to allow the ice to melt during the day;

take care when driving or walking on compacted snow as it may have turned to ice. If possible, travel during the day and stay on main roads and avoid back road shortcuts;

monitor your health and if you have any symptoms consult your doctor for advice.

In very cold weather turn off the water supply to external water taps;

Put away/secure anything that can be blown about possibly causing damage to your home or car;

Keep warm and safe in winter;

If leaving your house unoccupied for an extended period when icy conditions are likely, consider setting your central heating to come on automatically for a short period in the morning and in the evening to stop internal pipes freezing;

Check on neighbours, especially those who are elderly or vulnerable to see if they need help.

AFTER

Consider any damage caused during the storm or gale, in particular loose cables that have been blown down or are still hanging, if in doubt obtain expert advice and do not touch them;

Avoid walking near walls, buildings and trees that may have been weakened.